A Word From Linda C. Martin | Land, Life & Science

Linda Martin standing in front of Morgan Hall

It is so hard to believe that this is my final column as the interim UTIA senior vice chancellor and senior vice president. Next month I hand over the reins to Carrie Castille, who will do an amazing job leading UTIA into the future. As I reflect on my ten months with this wonderful organization, I want to share three things that have made an impact on me.

First, the pandemic, supply chain issues, wars overseas, and a changing climate have shown us that agriculture has never been more relevant. People must eat to survive, and how we grow, harvest, and protect that life-sustaining food is shaped by the faculty and students of both the Herbert College of Agriculture and the College of Veterinary Medicine. Our research leads to improved outcomes, our Extension staff deliver critical information to those who need it, and our faculty challenge, inspire, and develop the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.

My second observation is that our UTIA family consistently looks for ways to reach beyond the ordinary, to cultivate ideas, and put innovative practices into place. There is extraordinary opportunity to build an even greater presence in our state, the nation, and the world—working to make an even more profound impact. I have challenged UTIA leadership to think boldly, identify opportunities, and execute on big ideas. Never have we seen the support of the Institute’s work by the University and our legislature so strong. We can, and will, make the most of these many emerging opportunities under Castille’s leadership.

And finally, no organization is worth its salt without outstanding people giving their all to it every day. That is the hallmark of UTIA. Dedicated faculty and staff strive for excellence and are unfailing in their efforts to support each other in doing so. People often remark that the Institute feels like family; I could not agree more. It’s been such an honor serving in this capacity. I am proud to have been among those who serve the Institute in supporting our land-grant mission of research, teaching, and Extension.

Please join me in welcoming Carrie Castille to UTIA. You will learn more about her in this issue and will get to know her personally in the months ahead. She is beyond thrilled about this opportunity, and I can’t blame her. She is inheriting a wonderful organization filled with extraordinarily dedicated and highly talented faculty, staff, and students!

All my best,